Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi argues that the political leadership shown by newly elected president Cyril Ramaphosa is a powerful tool in the fight against a growing “explosion” of lifestyle diseases, writes HEALTH-E’s Amy Green.

Over half the population has unhealthy levels of body fat. At Johannesburg’s three busiest taxi ranks, energy drinks, chips, pap and meat are the most popular morning purchases. But what influences these choices? Cost? Taste? Accessibility? Health-e News’s AMY GREEN and THABO MOLELEKWA try to find answers.

For the first time in world history, there are more obese than underweight people. Both are symptoms of malnutrition, part of a global food system geared towards profits. Activists want a radical shift in the entire food system, including a total ban on junk food advertising. Is it possible and will it make a difference?